India’s Tiger Census – 2022

India is home to the largest population of tigers in the world, and their protection and conservation is of utmost importance. The country conducts a scientific estimation of its tiger population once every four years, and the latest report was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently.

The Total Number of Tigers in India

The report revealed that as of 2022, India’s tiger population stands at 3,167, which is a significant increase from the 2006 figure of 1,411. This growth indicates that conservation efforts in India are working and that the government’s initiatives and measures are helping in preserving the species.

Tiger Populations in Different Landscapes

However, the report also shows a decrease in tiger population in the Western Ghats landscape. The Western Ghats have seen a significant decline in the tiger population due to the overlap between “wildlife and humans” caused by developmental activities. This area covers about 1,40,000 square km and is a cause of concern for conservationists.

The report further highlights that the Nilgiri cluster that is Nagarahole to BRT Hills in Karnataka has the largest tiger population in the world. However, the tiger populations in areas outside of the reserves such as Wayanad landscape, BRT Hills, and the tiger areas on Goa-Karnataka border have decreased significantly.

States Reporting a Decline in Tiger Populations

The report has shown a decline in tiger populations in the Indian states of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This data highlights the need for increased protection and conservation measures in these areas.

Increase in Tiger Populations in Other Landscapes

The report indicates that several landscapes have shown a substantial increase in tiger population, such as Shivalik and Gangetic floodplain, central India, northeastern hills, Brahmaputra flood plains, and Sundarbans. This growth is promising and a testament to the conservation efforts that have been implemented in these areas.

International Big Cat Alliance

In a bid to protect and conserve seven major big cats of the world – tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, pumas, jaguars, and cheetahs, the International Big Cat Alliance was inaugurated in Mysuru. The alliance aims to work towards the protection and conservation of these big cats.

Month: Current Affairs – April, 2023

Category: India Nation & States Current Affairs